Historic Resource Survey Form : Klamath Hall
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Date
2006
Authors
Johnson, Susan
Flathman, Jennifer
Pochert, Erin
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Oregon
Abstract
The science departments at the University of Oregon continued to grow in enrollment and specialization during the late 1950s
and early 1960s. By the mid 1960s, the facilities in Science I (Pacific Hall) and its East Addition(Onyx Bridge) were cramped and
outdated. Emerging fields such as Molecular Biology needed space and specialized equipment. The University planned to augment
the science facilities with new buildings. In addition to funding from the State of Oregon, much of the sponsorship for individual
laboratories came from grants given by the National Science Foundation and National Institutes of Health.
The selection of Skidmore, Owings, and Merrill (SOM) to conduct the master planning for the science complex and design for
Science II is significant in that this was the first firm from outside of the Northwest to design a campus building. This large, international
firm is known for technically sophisticated buildings that emphasize utility. The master plan for the science complex called for
incremental building with separate structures linked by corridors and courtyards to provide unity. The functional requirements of the
departments housed within provide the organizational scheme for each individual building. The design for Klamath Hall (Science II)
utilizes modern design principles to respond to the ever-changing functional needs. In keeping with Modernist principles, the only
ornament is the expression of the structural frame. Not merely an aesthetic choice, the frame and corresponding lack of internal
columns provides for open laboratory spaces, easy internal partitioning, and sun control. The use of fixed windows and reliance on
mechanical ventilation also reflect the importance of technology in modern design. The desire to maximize internal flexibility drove the
decisions for everything from mechanical systems to laboratory finishes. The Science Library’s central location is a hub linking the
various departments together. The Library’s position in the basement maximizes the coverage on the site with the light well providing
daylight and controlled access to the outdoors from within the facility. The Library is emblematic of the connection between utility and
technology found throughout Klamath Hall and modern design.
Description
6 pages
Keywords
architecture, history, cultural resources survey